As the sun sets on a joyous Eid celebration, families gather together to share in the festive spirit. At the heart of every Eid feast is delicious food that brings people closer together. In this article, we will explore 20 mouth-watering Eid recipes that are sure to make your taste buds dance with joy.
From classic biryani and kebabs to innovative takes on traditional dishes like haleem and mandi, these recipes showcase the rich culinary heritage of our cultures. Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or just looking for some inspiration for a cozy family dinner, we’ve got you covered with a range of options that cater to all tastes.
In this special collection, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across continents and cuisines, featuring dishes from Pakistan, India, Middle East, and beyond. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the aroma of these delectable Eid recipes fill your home with warmth and love.
Biryani with Fragrant Basmati Rice and Spiced Meat
Experience the rich aroma and flavors of traditional Indian biryani, elevated by the addition of fragrant basmati rice and tender spiced meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 lb boneless lamb or beef, cut into small pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup cooked meat (lamb or beef), chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Drain and add the soaked basmati rice to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Mix in the chopped cooked meat and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinners with these flavorful beef kebabs served with a tangy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon juice.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix yogurt with minced garlic and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve beef kebabs with garlic yogurt sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Haleem with Slow-Cooked Wheat and Lentils
This traditional Middle Eastern dish is a hearty and comforting meal made with slow-cooked wheat, lentils, and tender chicken. Chicken Haleem is a popular breakfast or brunch option, especially during special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups of hulled wheat berries
– 1 cup of brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wheat berries and lentils separately, then soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the chicken, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked wheat berries and lentils to the pot, along with the remaining water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb Mandi with Aromatic Yemeni Spices
This traditional Yemeni dish is a hearty and flavorful rice-based meal, infused with the warm aromas of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. A perfect blend of spices creates a delightful harmony, making this lamb mandi a staple in many Yemeni households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the lamb is tender and the rice is cooked.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Shahi Tukda with Saffron and Rose Syrup
Sahi Tukda is a traditional Indian sweet dish that combines the richness of saffron and rose syrup with crispy bread. This recipe adds an extra layer of complexity and flavor to this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of white bread (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup rose syrup
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and toast until crispy.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
3. Add the soaked saffron threads and mix well.
4. Add the rose syrup and powdered sugar to the whipped cream mixture. Mix until smooth.
5. Dip each toasted bread cube into the creamy mixture, coating completely.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Seviyan Kheer with Cardamom and Nuts
Seviyan kheer is a popular Indian dessert made with vermicelli noodles, milk, and nuts. This recipe adds the warmth of cardamom to create a comforting and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup seviyan (vermicelli noodles)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the seviyan noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and ground cardamom. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Add the cooked seviyan noodles to the milk mixture and stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the kheer thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the unsalted butter until melted.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Samosas with Crispy Pastry
Experience the authentic flavors of India with these crispy pastry samosas filled with tender beef and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
+ 1 teaspoon coriander powder
+ Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add ghee or oil and lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
5. Place a tablespoon of beef filling in the center of each circle. Fold and seal the edges to form a triangle or a cone shape.
6. Fry samosas in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Karahi with Fresh Ginger and Coriander
A flavorful and aromatic Pakistani-inspired stir-fry dish that combines the richness of chicken, the pungency of ginger, and the warmth of coriander. This recipe is a perfect blend of spices and technique to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2-3 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add grated ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes
Lamb Kofta Curry with Rich Tomato Gravy
A flavorful and aromatic curry dish that combines the richness of lamb koftas with a tangy tomato gravy, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb mince
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 250g ripe tomatoes, diced
– 200ml lamb or chicken stock
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Mix lamb mince with onion, garlic, ghee, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt.
3. Shape into koftas and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pan, sauté diced tomatoes in oil until softened.
5. Add stock, tomato paste, and cooked koftas to the pan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Malai Kulfi with Pistachios and Saffron
Kulfi, a traditional Indian ice cream, gets an exotic twist with the addition of crunchy pistachios and subtle saffron. This creamy treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm water
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in soaked saffron threads and their liquid, chopped pistachios, and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, scoop the kulfi into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (chilling) + serving time
Vegetable Pulao with Mixed Seasonal Veggies
This Vegetable Pulao recipe is a perfect blend of aromatic spices, fluffy basmati rice, and a medley of seasonal vegetables. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed seasonal vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add grated carrot and mixed vegetables; stir well.
5. Add cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt; stir.
6. Add rice and water to the saucepan; bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chana Chaat with Tangy Tamarind Chutney
A flavorful and spicy street food-inspired snack from North India, Chana Chaat is a perfect blend of chickpeas, spices, and tanginess. This recipe adds an extra layer of zing with the help of a tangy tamarind chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas (chana)
– 1/2 cup boiled and diced potatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Red chili powder, for garnish
– Tamarind Chutney (recipe below)
Tamarind Chutney:
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together chickpeas, potatoes, cilantro, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Pour the oil mixture over the chickpea mixture and toss well.
3. Garnish with red chili powder and serve immediately with Tamarind Chutney on top.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beef Nihari with Slow-Cooked Bone Marrow
Nihari is a traditional Indian dish that originated from the Mughal era, and this recipe takes it to new heights by incorporating slow-cooked bone marrow for an added depth of flavor. This hearty stew is perfect for special occasions or cozy night-ins.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef shanks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 bone marrow bones (cow or buffalo)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat ghee over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef shanks and cook for 5 minutes on each side.
5. Pour in beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2 hours or overnight.
7. Remove from oven and let it rest for 30 minutes.
8. Serve with slow-cooked bone marrow (cook at 150°C for 45 minutes).
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Gulab Jamun with Warm Sugar Syrup
A classic Indian dessert, Gulab Jamun consists of soft dumplings made from milk solids, deep-fried and then soaked in a warm sugar syrup. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Warm sugar syrup (see below)
Warm Sugar Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rosewater (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Mix milk powder and water to form a smooth dough.
2. Shape into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
3. Deep-fry in hot oil until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
4. Soak fried dumplings in warm sugar syrup for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (frying) + 30 minutes (soaking)
Chicken Tikka with Smoky Charcoal Flavor
Experience the bold flavors of India with this mouthwatering Chicken Tikka recipe infused with smoky charcoal notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt.
6. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Spices
A classic Kashmiri dish, Lamb Rogan Josh is a rich and flavorful curry that showcases the bold flavors of lamb, spices, and yogurt. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional preparation method.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups lamb or beef broth
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add broth, yogurt, salt, and browned onions. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until lamb is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Phirni with Ground Rice and Almonds
Phirni is a popular Indian dessert made by cooking ground rice with milk, sugar, and nuts. This recipe adds the crunch of almonds to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup ground rice
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the ground rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, salt, and cardamom powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the rinsed ground rice to the milk mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and comes away from the sides of the pan.
4. Stir in the chopped almonds and ghee/butter until well combined.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
7. Refrigerate or serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Boti with Spicy Marinade
Experience the bold flavors of India with this mouthwatering Beef Boti dish, marinated in a spicy blend of aromatic spices and herbs. Perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade, mixing well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the beef for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Aloo Keema with Minced Meat and Potatoes
Aloo Keema with Minced Meat and Potatoes: A flavorful and hearty North Indian dish that combines the rich taste of minced meat with the comforting warmth of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 250g minced lamb or beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, till fragrant.
3. Add the minced meat and cook, breaking it with a spoon, until it’s fully cooked.
4. Add the diced potatoes, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Falooda with Vermicelli and Rose Milk
Falooda is a popular Indian dessert that typically consists of vermicelli noodles, milk, sugar, and nuts. In this recipe, we’re giving it a unique spin by adding the sweetness of rose milk to create a truly refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vermicelli noodles
– 2 cups rose milk (or regular milk with a few drops of rose syrup)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or almonds
– 1 tablespoon rosewater (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rose milk, sugar, and cooked vermicelli noodles. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Stir in the chopped nuts and rosewater (if using).
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Eid with these mouthwatering recipes! From classic dishes like Biryani, Beef Kebabs, and Chicken Haleem, to sweet treats like Shahi Tukda and Malai Kulfi, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making Lamb Mandi, Beef Samosas, or Chicken Karahi, or go for a lighter option with Vegetable Pulao. Don’t forget the desserts – Gulab Jamun, Phirni, and Falooda are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With this collection of 20 delicious Eid recipes, you’ll be hosting a festive feast in no time!